Long Beach is a large port city with an impressive coastline. It is situated at the very southeast edge of [[Los Angeles County]], bordering [[Orange County]], in a region known as [[Gateway Cities (Los Angeles County)|Gateway Cities]].

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Long Beach is a large coastal and port city in Southern California. It is situated at the very southeastern edge of [[Los Angeles County]], bordering both the city of [[Los Angeles]] and [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]], in a region known as the [[Gateway Cities (Los Angeles County)|Gateway Cities]].

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You may hear different people say both wonderful and horrible things about the city. This is because the city is so large that it encompasses everything ranging from a large industrial area to extremely exclusive communities.

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Long Beach is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse cities in America. It has large percentages of Latinos and Whites (non-hispanic), as well as very sizeable percentages of Blacks (non-hispanic) and Asians. As a whole, the city tends to have a more East-Coast/Midwest vibe when compared to the rest of the coastal California cities, so people from those regions of the country may find themselves a little more at home in Long Beach.

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Long Beach is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse cities in the United States, with immigrants from all regions of the world calling it home. It tends to have a more East-Coast, blue collar feel than the rest of coastal California.

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You may hear different people say different things about Long Beach; either wonderful or horrible things. This is because the city has quite a large population, with a density rate greater than that of nearby Los Angeles. Therefore, like other large cities, Long Beach encompasses everything, such as large industrial areas, struggling neighborhoods, quiet middle-class communities, and exclusive neighborhoods.

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Long Beach isn't typically the primary target of someone's tourist visit, but it is centrally located to just about everything else that you'd want to see in Southern California. That said, Long Beach does have some nice people-gathering areas as well as genuine tourist attractions such as the Queen Mary floating museum and a world-class aquarium.

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Long Beach has some nice people-gathering amenities and genuine tourist attractions, such as a world-class aquarium and the Queen Mary floating museum/hotel. Special events are also held in the city like the annual Long Beach Grand Prix (a premier racing event held on city streets) and the annual Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride event. When compared to other areas like Hollywood, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, and West L.A., Long Beach may not always be at the top of someone's tourist visit to the Los Angeles area, but the city draws its fair share of visitors and has proven it can definitely hold its own.

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The area code for Long Beach is 562. For emergency services, dial 911 from any phone.

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The area code for Long Beach is 562. For emergency services, dial 911 from any phone.

==Get in==

==Get in==

===By plane===

===By plane===

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Long Beach is served by three airports, LAX, LGB, and SNA, all of which are connected by Interstate 405. Unless you're flying JetBlue, LAX may be the most practical of the three.

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Out of the five airports in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, Long Beach can easily be reached from three: Long Beach Airport (LGB), within the city itself; Los Angeles International (LAX), 22 miles away; and Santa Ana (SNA), 23 miles away. All three lie adjacent to Interstate 405. The other two airport options are Burbank (BUR), 37 miles away; and Ontario (ONT), 53 miles away. LGB will obviously be the most convenient to use location-wise and, being a smaller airport, provides less hassle; however, LAX may offer more frequent service and better fares.

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'''Long Beach Airport''' ({{IATA|LGB}}) [http://www.longbeach.gov/airport/default.asp] is the closest airport. ''JetBlue Airways'' [http://jetBlue.com] serves 14 destinations from Long Beach Airport: Oakland, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, NYC/JFK, Chicago O'Hare, Boston, DC/Dulles, Ft. Lauderdale, Austin, San Jose, Seattle, Portland OR, and San Francisco. Other airlines include ''Alaska Airlines'' (Seattle), ''US Airways Express'' (Phoenix), and ''Delta'' (Salt Lake City). Rental cars are available for hire at the airport (Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, National). Long Beach Yellow Cab ''+ 1 -562'' 435-6111 serves the airport, approximate fares to downtown hotels $30-40 OW. Long Beach Transit Route 111 (Broadway/Lakewood) connects the airport to downtown Long Beach and to the Blue Line at the downtown Transit Mall; it runs south to downtown (40 min ride) from LGB about once every half hour and costs $1.25[http://www.lbtransit.com/Schedules/Default.aspx?routegrp=110]. To find the bus stop, follow the taxi signs, walk one block beyond the taxi lineup, and turn right. Be sure to ask if the bus goes downtown, since both north- and south-bound Route 111 buses use this one bus stop at LGB.

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'''Long Beach Airport''' ({{IATA|LGB}}) [http://www.longbeach.gov/airport/default.asp]: Rental cars are available for hire at the airport, which will most likely be needed in Southern California. Long Beach Yellow Cab ''+ 1 -562'' 435-6111 is another option, approximate fares to downtown hotels $30-40 one-way. City bus Long Beach Transit Route 111 (Broadway/Lakewood) connects the airport to downtown Long Beach and to the Blue Line at the downtown Transit Mall. It runs south to downtown (40 min ride) from LGB about once every half hour and costs $1.25[http://www.lbtransit.com/Schedules/Default.aspx?routegrp=110]. To find the bus stop, follow the taxi signs, walk one block beyond the taxi lineup, and turn right. Be sure to ask if the bus goes downtown, since both northbound and southbound Route 111 buses use this one bus stop at LGB.

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'''Los Angeles International Airport''' ({{IATA|LAX}}) [http://www.los-angeles-lax.com/] is the second closest airport, about 25 miles away. It is fairly easy to take the Metro Rail from LAX to Long Beach, although you may require a short taxi ride or transfer to another bus to reach your final destination. Look for the LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections sign on the Lower/Arrival Level islands in front of each terminal, and board the free "G" Shuttle which terminates at the Aviation/LAX Green Line Metro Rail Station. Purchase a two-segment ticket from the automated kiosk ($2.50). You will take the Metro Green Line, exit at the Imperial/Wilmington/Rosa Parks Station, change levels, and transfer to the Blue Line southbound to Long Beach. Overall travel time from LAX is about one hour. It is not recommended to take this line late at night. The Long Beach Transit Mall in downtown Long Beach is the southern terminus of the Blue line. Two shared van services (Supershuttle or PrimeTime Shuttle) provide door to door service from LAX. Advise the representatives that you need a ride to Long Beach, and they will flag the appropriate van. Fare is approximately $28 one way, taking about one hour. A taxi from LAX to Long Beach is about $70. The shuttle or taxi is most convenient if you are traveling with heavy bags, arriving at night, or going to a final destination not near a Blue Line station.

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'''Los Angeles International Airport''' ({{IATA|LAX}}) [http://www.los-angeles-lax.com/]: It is fairly easy to take the Metro Rail from LAX to Long Beach, although you may require a short taxi ride or transfer to another bus to reach your final destination. Look for the LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections sign on the Lower/Arrival Level islands in front of each terminal, and board the free "G" Shuttle which takes you to the Aviation/LAX Green Line Metro Rail Station. This is the closest station to the airport. Purchase a two-segment ticket from the automated kiosk ($2.50) for the two rapid transit lines you will ride. Take the Green Line train and exit at the Imperial/Wilmington/Rosa Parks Station. Then change levels and transfer to the Blue Line southbound to Long Beach. Overall travel time from LAX is about an hour and fifteen minutes or so during daytime hours. Daytime travel is fine, but it is not recommended to take the Blue Line late in the evening as the line traverses some very questionable neighborhoods. Two shared van services (Supershuttle or PrimeTime Shuttle) provide door to door service from LAX. Advise the representatives that you need a ride to Long Beach, and they will flag the appropriate van. Fare is approximately $28 one way, taking about one hour. A taxi from LAX to Long Beach is about $70. If you do not plan on having a car, the shuttle or taxi is the most convenient if you are traveling with heavy bags, arriving in the evening, or going to a final destination not near a Blue Line station.

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'''Orange County/John Wayne Airport''' ({{IATA|SNA}}) [http://www.ocair.com/jwa_main_page.htm] is the third closest airport, about 35 miles away. No convenient public transportation to Long Beach; would have to rent a car or take a shuttle or a taxi

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'''Orange County/John Wayne Airport''' ({{IATA|SNA}}) [http://www.ocair.com/jwa_main_page.htm]: City buses will offer the only public transportation to Long Beach from SNA, which will not be too convenient. Renting a car (as you will probably need anyway) or taking a taxi will be better options. This airport and LAX are about equal distances from Long Beach (abeit, in different directions) and although busy, it is somewhat less busier than LAX for a little less airport hassle.

===By rail===

===By rail===

Line 80:

Line 80:

===By public transit from Orange County===

===By public transit from Orange County===

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There are several easy ways to get to Long Beach from Orange County if you don't have a car. The most direct way is to take Orange County Transit Authority's Route 50 bus servicing Katella Avenue, which passes between Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center. The western terminus of this route is Cal State U-Long Beach. If you are in the Beach Cities, take Route 1 servicing the Pacific Coast Highway and also terminating at CSULB. Alternatively, you can also take Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner or Metrolink's Orange County Line to LA Union Station and transfer to Metro Rail as already described.

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There are several ways to get to Long Beach from Orange County if you don't or can't rent a car. The most direct way is to take Orange County Transit Authority's Route 50 bus servicing Katella Avenue, which passes between Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center. The western terminus of this route is California State University-Long Beach (CSULB). If you are in the Beach Cities, take Route 1 servicing the Pacific Coast Highway and also terminating at CSULB.

* '''Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority''' (Metro) [http://metro.net/default.asp] Toll free ''+1-800'' 266-6883 (includes Blue Line light rail to downtown Los Angeles and Green Line to LAX). Fares Regular $1.25, each leg (transfers within the MTA system are not free); Seniors (62 and older), Medicare, Disabled: $0.55; Two children under age 5 may travel free with each fare-paying adult. Metro Day Pass Regular $5, valid on all MTA Bus and rail lines. Transfers to other systems, $0.30.

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* '''Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority''' (Metro) [http://www.metro.net/] Toll free ''+1-800'' 266-6883 (includes Blue Line light rail to downtown Los Angeles and Green Line to LAX). Fares Regular $1.50, each leg (transfers within the MTA system are not free); Seniors (62 and older), Medicare, Disabled: $0.55; Two children under age 5 may travel free with each fare-paying adult. Metro Day Pass Regular $5, valid on all MTA Bus and rail lines. Transfers to other systems, $0.30.

* ''' Aquarium of the Pacific''', 100 Aquarium Way; ''+1-562'' 590-3100, Fax: ''+1-562''951-1629, e-mail:aquariumofpacific@lbaop.org, [http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/]. Open 9AM-6PM every day of the year, except December 25 and during the weekend of the Grand Prix of Long Beach. The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the largest aquariums in the United States. Its nearly 1,000 species fill 19 major habitats and 32 focus exhibits and take visitors on a journey throughout the Pacific Ocean's three regions: Southern California/Baja, the Tropical Pacific, and the Northern Pacific. General Admission: Adult - $20.95, Child (3-11) - $11.95, Senior (60+) - $17.95. General Admission Plus Behind-The-Scenes Tour (ages 7 and up only): Adult - $31.95, Child (7-11) - $23.95, Senior (60+) - $29.95. There is also a Combo package with the Queen Mary. (Pay parking or take Passport C)

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* <see name="Aquarium of the Pacific" alt="" address="100 Aquarium Way" directions="" phone="''+1-562'' 590-3100" email="aquariumofpacific@lbaop.org" fax="''+1-562'' 951-1629" url="http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/" hours="Daily 9AM-6PM, except December 25and the weekend of the Grand Prix of Long Beach in April" price="General Admission: Adult - $24.95, Child (3-11) - $13.95, Senior (62+) - $21.95. General Admission Plus Behind-The-Scenes Tour (ages 7 and up only): Adult - $38.95, Child (3-11) - $27.95, Senior (62+) - $35.95.">One of the largest aquariums in the United States, its nearly 1,000 species fill 19 major habitats and 32 focus exhibits and take visitors through three regions of the Pacific Ocean: Southern California/Baja, the Tropical Pacific, and the Northern Pacific. There is also a Combo package with the Queen Mary. (Pay parking or take Passport C)</see>

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* ''' Queen Mary''', 1126 Queens Highway; ''+1-562'' 435-3511, [http://www.queenmary.com]. Daily 10AM-6PM. The Queen Mary is a historic Cunard White Star ocean liner whose past includes being a troop transport in World War II and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Several different tours of the ship are offered including a Ghosts and Legends tour. The Queen Mary also boasts a hotel, several restaurants and a shopping promenade. General Admission (includes Ghosts and Legends Tour, Self-Guided Queen Mary Shipwalk Tour and access to all open exhibit areas): Adult - $22.95, Senior/Military* - $19.95, Child (5-11) - $11.95. There are several other tour packages including a Combo ticket with the Aquarium of the Pacific. (Pay parking or take Passport C)

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* <see name="Queen Mary" alt="" address="1126 Queens Highway" directions="" phone="''+1-877'' 342-0738" email="" fax="" url="http://www.queenmary.com" hours="Su-Th 10AM-6PM, F-Sa 10AM-7PM" price="General Admission: Adult - $24.95, Senior/Military* - $21.95, Child (5-11) - $12.95">The Queen Mary is a historic Cunard White Star ocean liner whose past includes being a troop transport in World War II and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Several different tours of the ship are offered including a Ghosts and Legends tour. The Queen Mary also boasts a hotel, several restaurants and a shopping promenade. General Admission includes Ghosts and Legends Tour, Self-Guided Queen Mary Shipwalk Tour and access to all open exhibit areas. There are several other tour packages including a Combo ticket with the Aquarium of the Pacific or the Scorpion Submarine. (Pay parking or take Passport C)</see>

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* ''' Russian Foxtrot Submarine: "SCORPION"''', 1126 Queens Highway (next to the Queen Mary); 432-0424, Fax: (909) 336-5938, e-mail: russianscorpion@charter.net, [http://www.russiansublongbeach.com]. Daily 10AM-6PM. A self-guided tour of a Cold War Soviet submarine. A retired Russian submarine officer is at the submarine five days a week to answer questions. Call ahead for days and hours he will be available. Be aware that the passageways and hatches are very small, so this is not for those who are claustrophobic. Adults - $10.95; Seniors (55+), Children (3 to 11), Military (With ID)- $9.95; Under 3 are Free. (Pay parking or take Passport C)

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* <see name="Russian Foxtrot Submarine: "SCORPION"" alt="" address="1126 Queens Highway" directions="adjacent to the Queen Mary" phone="''+1 562'' 432-0424" email="russianscorpion@charter.net" fax="''+1 909'' 336-5938" url="http://www.russiansublongbeach.com" hours="Daily 10AM-6PM" price="Adults - $10.95; Seniors (55+), Children (3 to 11), Military (With ID)- $9.95; Under 3 are Free">A self-guided tour of a Cold War Soviet submarine. A retired Russian submarine officer is at the submarine five days a week to answer questions. Call ahead for days and hours he will be available. Be aware that the passageways and hatches are very small, so this is not for those who are claustrophobic. Admission is also available as a combo ticket with the Queen Mary. (Pay parking or take Passport C)</see>

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* ''' Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden''', 1250 Bellflower Boulevard ''On the campus of California State University Long Beach'', ''+1-562'' 985-5930, e-mail:jgarden@csulb.edu, [http://www.csulb.edu/~jgarden/]. Tu-F 8AM-3:30PM, Su Noon to 4PM, Closed Sa,M. Please call to verify hours as university events sometimes require early closures. The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a 1.3 acre Japanese garden with a traditional tea house and koi ponds. A self-guided tour book is available for $1. Tours for groups of 10 or more may be arranged by calling the garden office at ''+1-562'' 985-8420. General Admission: Adult - $3.00, Senior (60+) - $2.00, Child (under 12) - Free. Take Passport D.

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* <see name="Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden" alt="" address="1250 Bellflower Boulevard" directions="On the campus of California State University Long Beach" phone="''+1-562'' 985-5930" email="jgarden@csulb.edu" fax="" url="http://www.csulb.edu/~jgarden/index.html" hours="Tu-F 8AM-3:30PM, Su Noon to 4PM, Closed M and Sa" price="Free">The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a 1.3 acre Japanese garden with a traditional tea house and koi ponds. A self-guided tour book is available for $1. Call to verify hours as university events sometimes require early closures. Tours for groups of 10 or more may be arranged by calling the garden office at ''+1-562'' 985-8420. Take Passport D.</see>

* '''Naples Island'''. A district in the southeast corner of Long Beach featuring canals with million dollar homes and walkways lining the canals. At Christmas, the residents extravagantly decorate their homes drawing crowds of pedestrians to admire the works of decorating art. Take Passport A or D.

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* <see name="Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Adobe" alt="" address="4600 Virginia Road" directions="" phone="''+1-562'' 570-1755" email="" fax="''+1-562'' 570-1893" url="http://www.rancholoscerritos.org/" hours="W-Su 1PM-5PM except holidays" price="Free, donations welcomed.">A two-story Monterey-style adobe home built in 1844. A National, State, and Long Beach Historic Landmark, the site includes historic gardens and a research library. Docent led tours on every hour from 1PM to 4PM. Groups over 10 should reserve two weeks ahead. Special events listed on the website.</see>

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* ''' Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Adobe''', 4600 Virginia Road, ''+1-562'' 570-1755, fax: ''+1-562'' 570-1893, [http://www.rancholoscerritos.org/]. Open W-Su 1PM-5PM except holidays. Rancho Los Cerritos is a two-story Monterey-style adobe home built in 1844. A National, State, and Long Beach Historic Landmark, the site includes historic gardens and a research library. Docent led tours on weekends, 1pm to 4pm, self guided tours Wednesday to Friday. Groups over 10 should reserve two weeks ahead. Special events listed on the website. Free, donations welcomed.

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* <see name="Naples Island" alt="" address="" directions="Take Ravenna Drive south from 2nd Street" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">A district in the southeast corner of Long Beach featuring canals with million dollar homes and walkways lining the canals. At Christmas, the residents extravagantly decorate their homes drawing crowds of pedestrians to admire the works of decorating art. Take Passport A or D.</see>

* <see name="Museum of Latin American Art" alt="MOLAA" address="628 Alamitos Ave." directions="" phone="''+1 562'' 437-1689" email="info@molaa.org" fax="''+1 562'' 437-7043" url="http://www.molaa.com/" hours="W,F-Su 11A-5PM. Th 11A-9PM. Closed Jan. 1, Jul. 4, Thanksgiving, Dec. 24 and 25." price="General - $9, Seniors and students - $6, children under 12 - free">MOLAA is the only museum in the western United States that exclusively features contemporary Latin American art. The museum seeks to educate through the utilization of its permanent collection, traveling exhibitions, and programs. MOLAA is in the newly developing East Village Arts District of Long Beach.</see>

* '''Long Beach Grand Prix''' [http://www.longbeachgp.com/] - Formerly CART, and as of April 2009 Indycar racing on a 2 mile track through the streets of downtown. Held every April. Celebrities often race in the pre-races.

*'''Long Beach Museum of Art''' Healing Children through Creativity: Child Art Therapy Workshop, October 27 and 28, 2008, [http://www.paintedchild.com] 2300 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90803. An introduction to the basic principles and practice of art therapy with children suffering from emotional, behavioral, medical and developmental challenges.

*'''Long Beach Museum of Art''' Healing Children through Creativity: Child Art Therapy Workshop, October 27 and 28, 2008, [http://www.paintedchild.com] 2300 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90803. An introduction to the basic principles and practice of art therapy with children suffering from emotional, behavioral, medical and developmental challenges.

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*'''Museum of Latin American Art (molaa)''' [http://www.molaa.com/], 562-437-1689. 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach, CA 90802. Molaa is the only museum in the western United States that exclusively features contemporary Latin American art. The museum seeks to educate through the utilization of its permanent collection, traveling exhibitions, and programs. Molaa is located in the newly developing East Village Arts District of Long Beach.

==Buy==

==Buy==

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'''Belmont Shore''' pedestrian district, Second Street in Belmont Shore. Bars, restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and national store outlets such as the Gap, Banana Republic, Buffalo Exchange and Vans. Between Buffalo Exchange and ZPizza is the record store Fingerprints, a local favorite with tons of new and vintage music. Take Passport A or D.

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*'''Belmont Shore''' pedestrian district, Second Street in Belmont Shore. Bars, restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and national store outlets such as the Gap, Banana Republic, Buffalo Exchange and Vans. Take Passport A or D.

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<buy name="East 4th" alt="" address="Between Cherry St. and Junipero along 4th St." directions="" phone="" url="" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Home to independent retro and hipster bookstores, clothing shops, furniture shops, and an Independent movie theater, the Art Theatre. Check out La Bomba for its extensive selection (including a literal mountain of clothes in the back of the store that you literally dig through.) Take Passport B.</buy>

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*<buy name="East 4th" alt="" address="Between Cherry St. and Junipero along 4th St." directions="" phone="" url="" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Home to independent retro and hipster bookstores, clothing shops, furniture shops, and an Independent movie theater, the Art Theatre. Check out La Bomba for its extensive selection (including a literal mountain of clothes in the back of the store that you literally dig through.) Take Passport B.</buy>

*<eat name="Creme De La Crepe" alt="" address="400 E. First Street Long Beach 90802" directions="Corner of First and Elm just off Ocean Blvd" phone="562 437 2222" url="cremedelacrepe.com" hours="8AM-10PM" price="" lat="" long="">Picture a Paris street cafe, add sunshine and cool breeze and what you get is "la creme de la crepe..." Authentic French cafe serving breakfast, lunch and diner daily. Award winner every year since 2005 and now recommended by Sunset Magazine, et voila!</eat>

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*<eat name="Sushi Studio" alt="" address="4917 East Pacific Coast Highway" directions="" phone="(562) 498-9008" url="" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Sushi restaurant that has a Thai theme with very good lunch and happy hour specials. Lunch specials under 10$ and specials on rolls. The Yellow Submarine(vegetarian) and Sexy girl rolls are very good. Located next to Don's Motel on Pacific Coast Highway. Parking can be tight sometimes. </eat>

* <eat name="Champagne Sunday Brunch" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="''+1-562'' 499-1606" email="" fax="" url="http://www.queenmary.com/index.php?page=sundaybrunch" hours="Su - 9:30AM-2:00PM" price="Adults - $37.50, Children (5-11 years) - $12.00">Includes a Carving and Entree Station with a selection of cooked meats; an Oriental Station with stir-fry; a Pasta Station with a selection of gourmet pastas and sauces; a Dessert Station with such delectables as chocolate covered strawberries; and a Mexican Station featuring foods from south of the border. There is a special buffet island just for children.</eat>

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* <eat name="Champagne Sunday Brunch" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="''+1-562'' 499-1606" email="" fax="" url="http://www.queenmary.com/index.php?page=sundaybrunch" hours="Su - 9:30AM-2PM" price="Adults - $37.50, Children (5-11 years) - $12">Includes a Carving and Entree Station with a selection of cooked meats; an Oriental Station with stir-fry; a Pasta Station with a selection of gourmet pastas and sauces; a Dessert Station with such delectables as chocolate covered strawberries; and a Mexican Station featuring foods from south of the border. There is a special buffet island just for children.</eat>

*<drink name="Shannon's On Pine" alt="" address="209 Pine Ave" directions="Just two blocks north of the convention center on Pine Ave. Located on the corner of Broadway and Pine" phone="562-436-4363" url="" hours="M-F 11:30AM-2AM Sat-Sun 9:00AM-2:00AM" price="Cocktails $3.75-6 Beer $3.75-$5, Sandwiches $4-7, Dinner $7-$11" lat="" long="">By far the friendliest bar in Long Beach. Excellently located on the corner of Pine ave and Broadway, Shannon's is the perfect place to stop in for an inexpensive, strong drink. The best selection of alcohol downtown. In addition to great drinks, the food is both reasonably priced and excellent. A wide selection of sandwiches, great dinner specials, and $9 bloody mary and omelette on weekends. </drink>

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*<drink name="Shannon's On Pine" alt="" address="209 Pine Ave" directions="Just two blocks north of the convention center on Pine Ave. Located on the corner of Broadway and Pine" phone="562-436-4363" url="" hours="M-F 11:30AM-2AM Sa-Su 9AM-2AM" price="Cocktails $3.75-6 Beer $3.75-$5, Sandwiches $4-7, Dinner $7-$11" lat="" long="">By far the friendliest bar in Long Beach. Excellently located on the corner of Pine ave and Broadway, Shannon's is the perfect place to stop in for an inexpensive, strong drink. The best selection of alcohol downtown. In addition to great drinks, the food is both reasonably priced and excellent. A wide selection of sandwiches, great dinner specials, and $9 bloody mary and omelette on weekends. </drink>

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*<drink name="The Sweet Water Saloon" alt="" address="1201 E. Broadway" directions="Corner of Orange Av. and Broadway" phone="562-432-7044" url="" hours="10am-2am" price="$2.00+" lat="" long="">Situated in a historic building(originally Villa Nova Restaurant in the 1940's), the Sweet Water Saloon is truly a neighborhood bar during the day time, and a party bar at night. Well known for having the coldest beers on the Broadway Corridor, home of the ONLY bar on the strip to offer seasonal beers on tap. Happy Hour 7 days a week, from open until 8pm: $2.00 draft beers, $3.00 domestic bottled beers and well cocktails. Wednesday nights are $2 drink days where all well drinks, draft beers, and bottled domestic beers are $2 AND free pool in one of the two pool tables. </drink>

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*<drink name="The Sweet Water Saloon" alt="" address="1201 E. Broadway" directions="Corner of Orange Av. and Broadway" phone="562-432-7044" url="" hours="10AM-2AM" price="$2+" lat="" long="">Situated in a historic building(originally Villa Nova Restaurant in the 1940's), the Sweet Water Saloon is truly a neighborhood bar during the day time, and a party bar at night. Well known for having the coldest beers on the Broadway Corridor, home of the ONLY bar on the strip to offer seasonal beers on tap. Happy Hour 7 days a week, from open until 8PM: $2 draft beers, $3 domestic bottled beers and well cocktails. Wednesday nights are $2 drink days where all well drinks, draft beers, and bottled domestic beers are $2 AND free pool in one of the two pool tables. </drink>

Long Beach has its own police department operating from four main stations throughout the city. Police can be reached by dialing 911 toll-free from any phone. Note that calling '''911''' from a cell phone will connect you with the California Highway Patrol when near freeways. The Long Beach Police now receive 911 calls directly from cell phones. To reach the Long Beach Police directly from a cell phone, dial ''+1 562'' 435-6711.

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Long Beach has its own police department operating from four main stations throughout the city. Police can be reached by dialing '''911''' toll-free from any phone. The Long Beach Police now receive '''911''' calls directly from cell phones however calling '''911''' from a cell phone when near freeways will connect you with the California Highway Patrol. To reach the Long Beach Police directly from a cell phone, dial ''+1 562'' 435-6711.

* '''South Station''' - 400 W. Broadway

* '''South Station''' - 400 W. Broadway

* '''West Station''' - 1835 Santa Fe Avenue

* '''West Station''' - 1835 Santa Fe Avenue

Line 279:

Line 284:

===Fire/Emergency Medical Services===

===Fire/Emergency Medical Services===

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Long Beach also has its own Class 1 Fire Department. The Class 1 designation indicates that response times to emergencies average 5 minutes or less. To request emergency assistance from the Fire Department, dial '''911''' toll-free from any phone. Note that calling 911 from a cell phone will connect you with the California Highway Patrol. To reach the Long Beach Fire Department directly from a cell phone, dial ''+1 562'' 436-8211.

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Long Beach also has its own Class 1 Fire Department. The Class 1 designation indicates that response times to emergencies average 5 minutes or less. To request emergency assistance from the Fire Department, dial '''911''' toll-free from any phone.

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Every fire engine and truck is staffed by fire-fighters with Basic Life Support training. The department also has a number of Advanced Life Support certified Paramedic Ambulances strategically stationed around the city. Fire Department Ambulances are available for emergency medical transport to a hospital, however, be aware that you will be billed for transport.

Every fire engine and truck is staffed by fire-fighters with Basic Life Support training. The department also has a number of Advanced Life Support certified Paramedic Ambulances strategically stationed around the city. Fire Department Ambulances are available for emergency medical transport to a hospital, however, be aware that you will be billed for transport.

===Hospitals===

===Hospitals===

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Long Beach is well-stocked with hospitals. There are three major hospitals in the city, including two that are Level II Trauma Centers (Memorial and St. Mary) capable of handling all but the most critical emergencies. All five of the hospitals listed below have 24-hour emergency rooms.

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Long Beach is well-served by hospitals. There are three major hospitals in the city, including two that are trauma centers (Memorial and St. Mary) capable of handling the most critical emergencies. All five of the hospitals listed below have 24-hour emergency rooms.

* '''Carnival Cruise Lines''' [http://www.carnival.com] - Long Beach is the home port for the ships "Ecstasy" and "Elation." Carnival built a terminal next to the Queen Mary. Cruises leave from this port to [[Baja California]] and the [[Mexican Riviera]].

* '''Carnival Cruise Lines''' [http://www.carnival.com] - Long Beach is the home port for the ships "Ecstasy" and "Elation." Carnival built a terminal next to the Queen Mary. Cruises leave from this port to [[Baja California]] and the [[Mexican Riviera]].

* '''Metro Blue Line''' [http://metro.net/default.asp] - (800) 266-6883 - Travels to [[Los Angeles/Downtown|downtown Los Angeles]]. Additionally, transferring to the Red Line will lead you to [[Hollywood]].

* '''Metro Blue Line''' [http://metro.net/default.asp] - (800) 266-6883 - Travels to [[Los Angeles/Downtown|downtown Los Angeles]]. Additionally, transferring to the Red Line will lead you to [[Hollywood]].

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* Travel east on Willow Street until it crosses into [[Orange County]] and becomes Katella Avenue - [[Disneyland]] will be to the left side of the road.

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* Travel east on Willow Street until it crosses into [[Orange County (California)|Orange County]] and becomes Katella Avenue - [[Disneyland]] will be to the left side of the road.

Long Beach is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse cities in America. It has large percentages of Latinos and Whites (non-hispanic), as well as very sizeable percentages of Blacks (non-hispanic) and Asians. As a whole, the city tends to have a more East-Coast/Midwest vibe when compared to the rest of the coastal California cities, so people from those regions of the country may find themselves a little more at home in Long Beach.

You may hear different people say different things about Long Beach; either wonderful or horrible things. This is because the city has quite a large population, with a density rate greater than that of nearby Los Angeles. Therefore, like other large cities, Long Beach encompasses everything, such as large industrial areas, struggling neighborhoods, quiet middle-class communities, and exclusive neighborhoods.

Long Beach has some nice people-gathering amenities and genuine tourist attractions, such as a world-class aquarium and the Queen Mary floating museum/hotel. Special events are also held in the city like the annual Long Beach Grand Prix (a premier racing event held on city streets) and the annual Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride event. When compared to other areas like Hollywood, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, and West L.A., Long Beach may not always be at the top of someone's tourist visit to the Los Angeles area, but the city draws its fair share of visitors and has proven it can definitely hold its own.

The area code for Long Beach is 562. For emergency services, dial 911 from any phone.

Get in

By plane

Out of the five airports in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, Long Beach can easily be reached from three: Long Beach Airport (LGB), within the city itself; Los Angeles International (LAX), 22 miles away; and Santa Ana (SNA), 23 miles away. All three lie adjacent to Interstate 405. The other two airport options are Burbank (BUR), 37 miles away; and Ontario (ONT), 53 miles away. LGB will obviously be the most convenient to use location-wise and, being a smaller airport, provides less hassle; however, LAX may offer more frequent service and better fares.

Long Beach Airport (IATA: LGB) [2]: Rental cars are available for hire at the airport, which will most likely be needed in Southern California. Long Beach Yellow Cab + 1 -562 435-6111 is another option, approximate fares to downtown hotels $30-40 one-way. City bus Long Beach Transit Route 111 (Broadway/Lakewood) connects the airport to downtown Long Beach and to the Blue Line at the downtown Transit Mall. It runs south to downtown (40 min ride) from LGB about once every half hour and costs $1.25[3]. To find the bus stop, follow the taxi signs, walk one block beyond the taxi lineup, and turn right. Be sure to ask if the bus goes downtown, since both northbound and southbound Route 111 buses use this one bus stop at LGB.

Los Angeles International Airport (IATA: LAX) [4]: It is fairly easy to take the Metro Rail from LAX to Long Beach, although you may require a short taxi ride or transfer to another bus to reach your final destination. Look for the LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections sign on the Lower/Arrival Level islands in front of each terminal, and board the free "G" Shuttle which takes you to the Aviation/LAX Green Line Metro Rail Station. This is the closest station to the airport. Purchase a two-segment ticket from the automated kiosk ($2.50) for the two rapid transit lines you will ride. Take the Green Line train and exit at the Imperial/Wilmington/Rosa Parks Station. Then change levels and transfer to the Blue Line southbound to Long Beach. Overall travel time from LAX is about an hour and fifteen minutes or so during daytime hours. Daytime travel is fine, but it is not recommended to take the Blue Line late in the evening as the line traverses some very questionable neighborhoods. Two shared van services (Supershuttle or PrimeTime Shuttle) provide door to door service from LAX. Advise the representatives that you need a ride to Long Beach, and they will flag the appropriate van. Fare is approximately $28 one way, taking about one hour. A taxi from LAX to Long Beach is about $70. If you do not plan on having a car, the shuttle or taxi is the most convenient if you are traveling with heavy bags, arriving in the evening, or going to a final destination not near a Blue Line station.

Orange County/John Wayne Airport (IATA: SNA) [5]: City buses will offer the only public transportation to Long Beach from SNA, which will not be too convenient. Renting a car (as you will probably need anyway) or taking a taxi will be better options. This airport and LAX are about equal distances from Long Beach (abeit, in different directions) and although busy, it is somewhat less busier than LAX for a little less airport hassle.

By rail

Long Beach is linked via the Metro Blue Line to downtown Los Angeles with connections to Hollywood, Union Station, Universal Studios, Pasadena, and East LA among other locations.

Amtrak and Metrolink service Union Station in downtown Los Angeles. To reach Long Beach from Union Station, take the Metro Red Line to the 7th St./Metro Center station then transfer to the Blue Line into Long Beach. Note: the Blue Line goes through some inner city locations (Watts and Compton) and there are not dedicated security guards on the trains. It may be discomforting to take the Blue Line late at night.

By ship

Carnival Cruise Line has a home port at the new Long Beach Cruise Terminal, next to Queen Mary dock. Cruises return to this port from Baja California and the Mexican Riviera.

By car

From the west (LAX, Santa Monica) or from Orange County, take the San Diego (405) freeway. Connect to the southbound Long Beach freeway (710) if your destination is dowtown Long Beach. From the north, the Long Beach freeway (710) runs along the western city boundary, and the San Gabriel Freeway (605) along the eastern boundary. From the coastal areas of Orange County, a scenic and convenient route is Pacific Coast Highway (Rte 1).

By public transit from Orange County

There are several ways to get to Long Beach from Orange County if you don't or can't rent a car. The most direct way is to take Orange County Transit Authority's Route 50 bus servicing Katella Avenue, which passes between Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center. The western terminus of this route is California State University-Long Beach (CSULB). If you are in the Beach Cities, take Route 1 servicing the Pacific Coast Highway and also terminating at CSULB.

Get around

A car is the most convenient way to get around Long Beach. Most areas of Long Beach have free parking but be aware that much of Downtown Long Beach has pay parking lots. The free bright red Passport buses serves the Long Beach downtown and waterfront attractions.

The Passport[7] consists of four bus routes connecting tourist and shopping sites. Passport A: Belmont Shore, crosstown from Catalina Landing through Downtown to Alamitos Bay Landing; Passport B: Village Tour, in the Downtown area; Passport C: Pine Avenue/Queen Mary, from Downtown to the Aquarium, Queen Mary, and the cruise ship terminal; Passport D: Los Altos, from Catalina Landing through Downtown to California State Long Beach and Los Altos shopping center. All four Passport routes converge at the downtown Transit Mall (Pine Ave and 1st St), where one can make transfers. Passport B and Passport C are FREE; Passports A & D are FREE only in the Downtown area between Catalina Landing and Alamitos Avenue.

Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) [9] Toll free +1-800 266-6883 (includes Blue Line light rail to downtown Los Angeles and Green Line to LAX). Fares Regular $1.50, each leg (transfers within the MTA system are not free); Seniors (62 and older), Medicare, Disabled: $0.55; Two children under age 5 may travel free with each fare-paying adult. Metro Day Pass Regular $5, valid on all MTA Bus and rail lines. Transfers to other systems, $0.30.

See

Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, ☎''+1-562'' 590-3100 (aquariumofpacific@lbaop.org, fax: ''+1-562'' 951-1629), [11]. Daily 9AM-6PM, except December 25and the weekend of the Grand Prix of Long Beach in April. One of the largest aquariums in the United States, its nearly 1,000 species fill 19 major habitats and 32 focus exhibits and take visitors through three regions of the Pacific Ocean: Southern California/Baja, the Tropical Pacific, and the Northern Pacific. There is also a Combo package with the Queen Mary. (Pay parking or take Passport C)General Admission: Adult - $24.95, Child (3-11) - $13.95, Senior (62+) - $21.95. General Admission Plus Behind-The-Scenes Tour (ages 7 and up only): Adult - $38.95, Child (3-11) - $27.95, Senior (62+) - $35.95..

Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway, ☎''+1-877'' 342-0738, [12]. Su-Th 10AM-6PM, F-Sa 10AM-7PM. The Queen Mary is a historic Cunard White Star ocean liner whose past includes being a troop transport in World War II and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Several different tours of the ship are offered including a Ghosts and Legends tour. The Queen Mary also boasts a hotel, several restaurants and a shopping promenade. General Admission includes Ghosts and Legends Tour, Self-Guided Queen Mary Shipwalk Tour and access to all open exhibit areas. There are several other tour packages including a Combo ticket with the Aquarium of the Pacific or the Scorpion Submarine. (Pay parking or take Passport C)General Admission: Adult - $24.95, Senior/Military* - $21.95, Child (5-11) - $12.95.

1126 Queens Highway (adjacent to the Queen Mary), ☎''+1 562'' 432-0424 (russianscorpion@charter.net, fax: ''+1 909'' 336-5938), [13]. Daily 10AM-6PM. A self-guided tour of a Cold War Soviet submarine. A retired Russian submarine officer is at the submarine five days a week to answer questions. Call ahead for days and hours he will be available. Be aware that the passageways and hatches are very small, so this is not for those who are claustrophobic. Admission is also available as a combo ticket with the Queen Mary. (Pay parking or take Passport C)Adults - $10.95; Seniors (55+), Children (3 to 11), Military (With ID)- $9.95; Under 3 are Free.

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden, 1250 Bellflower Boulevard (On the campus of California State University Long Beach), ☎''+1-562'' 985-5930 (jgarden@csulb.edu), [14]. Tu-F 8AM-3:30PM, Su Noon to 4PM, Closed M and Sa. The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a 1.3 acre Japanese garden with a traditional tea house and koi ponds. A self-guided tour book is available for $1. Call to verify hours as university events sometimes require early closures. Tours for groups of 10 or more may be arranged by calling the garden office at +1-562 985-8420. Take Passport D.Free.

Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Adobe, 4600 Virginia Road, ☎''+1-562'' 570-1755 (fax: ''+1-562'' 570-1893), [16]. W-Su 1PM-5PM except holidays. A two-story Monterey-style adobe home built in 1844. A National, State, and Long Beach Historic Landmark, the site includes historic gardens and a research library. Docent led tours on every hour from 1PM to 4PM. Groups over 10 should reserve two weeks ahead. Special events listed on the website.Free, donations welcomed..

Naples Island, (Take Ravenna Drive south from 2nd Street). A district in the southeast corner of Long Beach featuring canals with million dollar homes and walkways lining the canals. At Christmas, the residents extravagantly decorate their homes drawing crowds of pedestrians to admire the works of decorating art. Take Passport A or D.

Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), 628 Alamitos Ave., ☎''+1 562'' 437-1689 (info@molaa.org, fax: ''+1 562'' 437-7043), [19]. W,F-Su 11A-5PM. Th 11A-9PM. Closed Jan. 1, Jul. 4, Thanksgiving, Dec. 24 and 25.. MOLAA is the only museum in the western United States that exclusively features contemporary Latin American art. The museum seeks to educate through the utilization of its permanent collection, traveling exhibitions, and programs. MOLAA is in the newly developing East Village Arts District of Long Beach.General - $9, Seniors and students - $6, children under 12 - free.

Long Beach State Athletics (49er's), 1250 Bellflower Boulevard, ☎''+1-562'' 985-4949, [22]. The 49er's compete in NCAA Division 1 collegiate sports, including baseball (the "Dirtbags"), softball, basketball, volleyball, water polo, and women's soccer and tennis. Venues include the blue Walter Pyramid , one of three true pyramids in the United States and Blair Field.

Skylinks Golf Course, 4800 East Wardlow Road, ☎''+1-562'' 421-3388, [33]. 6AM-9:30PM. A championship 18 hole Scottish links tyle course with hilly lies on either side of the fairway. The course was redesigned by Cal Olsen in 2004.Call for current rates.

Events

Long Beach Grand Prix, Downtown, ☎''+1 562'' 981-2600 (info@gpalb.com), [35]. April. A weekend long event culminating in Indycar racing on a 2 mile track through the streets of downtown. Held every April. Celebrities races are among the events.

Long Beach Blues Festival[38], +1-562 985-1686, e-mail:tix@kkjz.org. Outdoor jazz and blues festival featuring big name artists like Etta James, Los Lobos and Black Crowes. Held at the California State University Long Beach athletic field. Labor Day weekend.

Learn

Long Beach is home to two major learning facilities, a California State University campus and a Community Junior College.

California State University Long Beach (CSULB) aka The Beach - [43] 1250 Bellflower Boulevard, +1 562 985-4111. CSULB offer a wide range of Bachelor degrees, as well as Masters degrees in Anthropology, Fine Arts, Business, and Science. One of the specialities of the campus is International Business.

Long Beach City College (LBCC) - [44] , +1 562 938-4111. LBCC is a two-year transfer or AA-degree school, including a highly regarded nursing program. The school has two campuses, one focusing on traditional education, the other on vocational training.

LBCC Liberal Arts Campus - 4901 E. Carson Street

LBCC Pacific Coast Campus - 1305 East Pacific Coast Highway

Long Beach Museum of Art Healing Children through Creativity: Child Art Therapy Workshop, October 27 and 28, 2008, [45] 2300 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90803. An introduction to the basic principles and practice of art therapy with children suffering from emotional, behavioral, medical and developmental challenges.

Buy

Belmont Shore pedestrian district, Second Street in Belmont Shore. Bars, restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and national store outlets such as the Gap, Banana Republic, Buffalo Exchange and Vans. Take Passport A or D.

East 4th, Between Cherry St. and Junipero along 4th St.. Home to independent retro and hipster bookstores, clothing shops, furniture shops, and an Independent movie theater, the Art Theatre. Check out La Bomba for its extensive selection (including a literal mountain of clothes in the back of the store that you literally dig through.) Take Passport B.

Shoreline Village, 429-P Shoreline Village Dr. (located at the south end of I-710, east of the Aquarium), ☎562-435-2668, [47]. Retail store hours are 10AM - 9PM daily; summer retail hours are 10AM - 10PM daily. Restaurant hours vary. Shoreline Village is a family friendly waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment center that overlooks beautiful Rainbow Harbor. Take Passport C.

Eat

Formerly known as "Iowa by the Sea", but now populated by a diverse community, Long Beach has a full range of dining options.

Creme De La Crepe, 400 E. First Street Long Beach 90802 (Corner of First and Elm just off Ocean Blvd), ☎562 437 2222, [48]. 8AM-10PM. Picture a Paris street cafe, add sunshine and cool breeze and what you get is "la creme de la crepe..." Authentic French cafe serving breakfast, lunch and diner daily. Award winner every year since 2005 and now recommended by Sunset Magazine, et voila!

Sushi Studio, 4917 East Pacific Coast Highway, ☎(562) 498-9008. Sushi restaurant that has a Thai theme with very good lunch and happy hour specials. Lunch specials under 10$ and specials on rolls. The Yellow Submarine(vegetarian) and Sexy girl rolls are very good. Located next to Don's Motel on Pacific Coast Highway. Parking can be tight sometimes.

Other

George's Greek Cafe, 5316 E. Second St., phone 562-437-1184. Friendly Greek restaurant. The house specialty is the lamb chops, but there are fish and vegetarian options, and a selection of Greek wines. Indoor and outdoor seating.

Champagne Sunday Brunch, ☎''+1-562'' 499-1606, [63]. Su - 9:30AM-2PM. Includes a Carving and Entree Station with a selection of cooked meats; an Oriental Station with stir-fry; a Pasta Station with a selection of gourmet pastas and sauces; a Dessert Station with such delectables as chocolate covered strawberries; and a Mexican Station featuring foods from south of the border. There is a special buffet island just for children.Adults - $37.50, Children (5-11 years) - $12.

Shannon's On Pine, 209 Pine Ave (Just two blocks north of the convention center on Pine Ave. Located on the corner of Broadway and Pine), ☎562-436-4363. M-F 11:30AM-2AM Sa-Su 9AM-2AM. By far the friendliest bar in Long Beach. Excellently located on the corner of Pine ave and Broadway, Shannon's is the perfect place to stop in for an inexpensive, strong drink. The best selection of alcohol downtown. In addition to great drinks, the food is both reasonably priced and excellent. A wide selection of sandwiches, great dinner specials, and $9 bloody mary and omelette on weekends. Cocktails $3.75-6 Beer $3.75-$5, Sandwiches $4-7, Dinner $7-$11.

The Sweet Water Saloon, 1201 E. Broadway (Corner of Orange Av. and Broadway), ☎562-432-7044. 10AM-2AM. Situated in a historic building(originally Villa Nova Restaurant in the 1940's), the Sweet Water Saloon is truly a neighborhood bar during the day time, and a party bar at night. Well known for having the coldest beers on the Broadway Corridor, home of the ONLY bar on the strip to offer seasonal beers on tap. Happy Hour 7 days a week, from open until 8PM: $2 draft beers, $3 domestic bottled beers and well cocktails. Wednesday nights are $2 drink days where all well drinks, draft beers, and bottled domestic beers are $2 AND free pool in one of the two pool tables. $2+.

Hilton Long Beach & Executive Meeting Center, 701 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90831, ☎562-983-3400, [71]. checkin: 3PM; checkout: 12PM. The recently renovated Hilton Long Beach & Executive Meeting Center hotel in Long Beach, California offers exceptional service, international flair and an elegant ambiance. Conveniently located next to the World Trade Center and on the Passport bus routes A and D.$150.

Stay safe

Most areas of Long Beach are fairly safe, even after dark. There are two major areas that are not quite as safe and should be avoided after dark. Caution is called for even during the daytime in these areas.

The first of these areas is in the south-western portion of the city. This area is bounded, starting from the south-east corner, by Redondo Blvd. and 4th, running north to the Signal Hill border. Along the Signal Hill border north-west to the 405 Freeway, along the freeway to the western border of Long Beach and Wilmington, down to 4th St.

The second and more dangerous of the areas is North Long Beach (north west of the LGB airport). The approximate boundaries of this area are from Del Amo and Cherry, north to the north border of the city, along the north border to the west border and back south to Del Amo. This area, which borders on Compton, has a reputation for gang activity and is one of the more active police and fire districts in the city.

During the riots of 1992, both of these areas experienced violence, looting, destruction of property.

Police

Long Beach has its own police department operating from four main stations throughout the city. Police can be reached by dialing 911 toll-free from any phone. The Long Beach Police now receive 911 calls directly from cell phones however calling 911 from a cell phone when near freeways will connect you with the California Highway Patrol. To reach the Long Beach Police directly from a cell phone, dial +1 562 435-6711.

South Station - 400 W. Broadway

West Station - 1835 Santa Fe Avenue

North Station - 4891 Atlantic Avenue

East Station - 4800 Los Coyotes Diagonal

Fire/Emergency Medical Services

Long Beach also has its own Class 1 Fire Department. The Class 1 designation indicates that response times to emergencies average 5 minutes or less. To request emergency assistance from the Fire Department, dial 911 toll-free from any phone.

Every fire engine and truck is staffed by fire-fighters with Basic Life Support training. The department also has a number of Advanced Life Support certified Paramedic Ambulances strategically stationed around the city. Fire Department Ambulances are available for emergency medical transport to a hospital, however, be aware that you will be billed for transport.

Hospitals

Long Beach is well-served by hospitals. There are three major hospitals in the city, including two that are trauma centers (Memorial and St. Mary) capable of handling the most critical emergencies. All five of the hospitals listed below have 24-hour emergency rooms.

Get out

Carnival Cruise Lines[90] - Long Beach is the home port for the ships "Ecstasy" and "Elation." Carnival built a terminal next to the Queen Mary. Cruises leave from this port to Baja California and the Mexican Riviera.

This is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow!